Cabot, AR asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas

Q: Are you aloud a second opinion with another lawyer even if you have already hired one??

i dont feel like he is helping me any what so every never returns phone calls or emails isnt filing all the stuff that should be filed he saying as its a waste of time but its not like he just has no interest!! can i get a second opinion before i end up in prison bc my lawyer dont seem to care!!

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1 Lawyer Answer
James E Hensley Jr
James E Hensley Jr
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Conway, AR
  • Licensed in Arkansas

A: You can speak with another attorney even though you have retained a lawyer. In fact, most lawyers want their clients to consider other options if a client is not satisfied. The goal is to help a client avoid jail or the repercussions of a criminal charge. I would be very surprised if your lawyer is not interested in helping you. Most of the time there is just nothing new happening in your case - especially with the COVID Virus.

You can always get a second opinion. I give a lot of second opinions. I'll tell you that it is usually a very poor decision to change lawyers. Many lawyers specialize in working your case. They don't spend your money on holding your hand. They are fighting off the Prosecutor. It's nice to be able to hear from your lawyer every day - It's just not practical.

Please do not be upset with me. I'm trying to help you here. My advice would be to maybe ask for an appointment to go over things. If there is nothing new, don't waste your time or the lawyer's time talking about the weather. If there is something new, your lawyer will let you know. I'll mention other concerns too. I do not say anything here to YOU specifically. This is just general good rules in the law business. I would make sure all fees have been paid and you have followed the provisions in the attorney/client agreement; i.e., no new criminal charges, no ugly or threatening messages, keep your opinion about your case to yourself - you never know who is talking to the Prosecutor to gain and edge for themselves. There are many lawyers around Cabot who would give you a second opinion. Since I will not be recommending me or anyone as a new attorney, I don't think Justia would be upset if you called me about this. Often, clients just need to hear that things will be o.k. I don't mind doing that. Good luck either way.

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